Navigating Microaggressions Against Women in Professional Settings

Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional, interactions or remarks that express prejudice or discrimination towards certain groups, including women. In professional settings, these microaggressions can have a significant impact on the work environment and employee well-being. This article aims to identify common examples of microaggressions against women and provide actionable strategies to address them effectively.

Examples of Microaggressions in the Workplace

Microaggressions are not limited to visible or overt forms of discrimination; they are often hidden and might be easily overlooked but nonetheless harmful. Here are some common examples:

In the Office

Women may face microaggressions in the workplace that can undermine their confidence and productivity. One such example is being repeatedly interrupted or ignored in meetings. This can make a woman feel undervalued and disregarded.

Example: Being repeatedly interrupted or ignored in meetings. What to do: Before the meeting, ask several people to agree to support each other if these interruptions occur. For instance, if you detect someone interrupting, say, "I think Isabelle is still speaking and has something to say."

Another example is when others claim your idea as their own. This can lead to a loss of recognition and merit.

Example: Someone else claims your idea as their own. What to do: In a meeting, have someone reinforce your ownership as soon as you make the suggestion, such as "That's a good idea, Isabelle!" If someone restates or claims your idea, acknowledge them, saying, "I'm glad you agree with Isabelle." For small meetings, summarize the discussion in an email before it concludes.

Women might also be assigned tasks outside their role, such as taking notes or organizing events. This can be seen as overstepping their boundaries or undervaluing their contributions.

Example: Always being asked to take notes, organize events, or other tasks outside the scope of your role. What to do: Either ask for volunteers before someone tries to assign you the task, or create a roster that tracks whose turn it is.

Being Treated as Incompetent

Women often face the frustration of being treated as incompetent in professional settings. A common example is when a salesman assumes they know nothing about the products being sold.

Example: Salesman assumes you know nothing about the tools, electronics, automotive items, etc., you're buying. What to do: Research beforehand using online resources to build your confidence and knowledge. For example, my wife loves it when this happens because she usually knows more about the merchandise than the salesman whose attitude changes quite quickly. Often, they end up "talking shop" while I wander away. If a situation arises where a salesman ignores her and talks directly to me, we wait patiently until he stops and then I get to say, "I have no idea. She's the one who's building/fixing it." Priceless!

Inappropriate Assumption of Familiarity

Being treated as someone’s "honey" or "darling" can be a subtle form of sexual harassment, making women feel uncomfortable and disrespected.

Example: “Can I help you, Honey?” What to do: If it feels safe, consider responding in an exaggerated way. For example, "No thanks, Snookums/Babycakes/Dollface, I’m fine."

Women may also be the subject of unwanted glances or touched inappropriately. In such cases, it's crucial to take decisive action.

Example: Being stared at, being touched inappropriately. What to do: If touched intentionally, understand that this is assault. It's illegal, it's not your fault, and you have every right to press charges if you choose. However, in today's imperfect world, calling out the offender loudly and publicly can be more effective and satisfying: "Did you just {explicit description}?" Feel free to ask embarrassing questions about his personal life. Other options include ignoring him, staring back and letting him see you take the pepper spray out of your pocket/purse, then smiling, or aiming your phone’s camera at him as you speak into the phone as if you’re on a call—or actually make a call. Alternatively, you might point at him and say to someone nearby: "Would you look at that weirdo/creep staring at me!"

Conclusion

Microaggressions, though often subtle and unintended, can have a significant negative impact on women in the workplace. By recognizing these subtle forms of discrimination and taking proactive steps to address them, individuals and organizations can create a more inclusive and respectful work environment.

References

Ntotenbhoy, S. (2021). Microaggressions in the workplace. Harvard Business Review. Oliveira, J. (2020). How to deal with microaggressions at work. LinkedIn Learning.